Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Lead high-impact policy, shape strategy and direction for threatened species and ecosystem conservation in NSW
• Permanent full-time (35 hours per week) opportunity
• Newcastle office, location across NSW negotiable, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $152,677 to $167,562 + super

Are you a strategic thinker who is passionate about protecting threatened species and ecosystems while shaping policy at the highest levels of government? The Strategic Policy, Science and Engagement Group supports the Minister and DCCEEW Executive by leading strategic policy, shaping whole-of-government environment agendas and providing high-quality advice on complex issues.

As a Principal Policy Officer, you will contribute to high-impact policy projects at the intersection of science, conservation and government decision-making. You’ll work collaboratively across government to design and drive legislative and regulatory reforms, guiding policies through Cabinet and Parliamentary processes to deliver long-term environmental and societal outcomes.

In this role, you will:

• Lead and coordinate strategic policy advice to support conservation in NSW, with a focus on threatened species and ecosystems.
• Provide clear, evidence-based advice informed by research, data and a deep understanding of legislative and policy frameworks.
• Represent NSW in cross-agency and inter-jurisdictional forums, contributing to national policy discussions and inquiries.
• Partner with senior managers and central agencies to integrate scientific research, operational realities and existing programs into policy outcomes.
• Engage with Executive, ministerial offices, and stakeholders to develop reforms and guide policies through Cabinet and Parliamentary processes.
• Analyse social, economic, political, and policy trends to inform forward-looking, resilient policy. 

About You
You are an experienced policy professional with a strong background in threatened species and conservation policy. You have a proven track record in developing evidence-based policy and strategy and can confidently contribute to the NSW Nature Strategy and the ongoing shift towards ecosystem-focused conservation.

You are highly capable of leading policy project teams, comprising Senior, Policy and Assistant Policy Officers and can manage project budgets effectively. You thrive in a complex policy environment, demonstrating sound judgement, strategic thinking and the ability to navigate corporate frameworks, budget considerations and business plans to achieve impactful outcomes. You can also prioritise your and your team’s work effectively in a busy policy environment.

Your expertise allows you to provide clear, authoritative advice to senior management and the Minister, while fostering collaboration across government and within DCCEEW. You are committed to delivering policies that are evidence-based, practical and aligned with NSW’s conservation priorities and you bring the depth of experience to guide significant policy initiatives from development through to implementation.

For more information read the full Role Description:  Principal Policy Officer

Who we are
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

To Apply
If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and a 2-page cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Please also note, to be eligible for an ongoing role in the NSW Public Sector you need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident. For temporary and casual roles, you need to hold a valid visa giving you permission to work in Australia as required by the role.

Applications close 15 February 2026 at 11:55PM.

Should you require further information about the role please contact Louise Pastro, Manager, Threatened Species and Ecosystems Policy contact on 02 9995 6559 or via email louise.pastro@dcceew.nsw.gov.au

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Alexandra Blair on 02 8275 1761 (please mention reference number 547224).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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